Diagnosing Autism in a Young Child: Learn the Signs
June 10, 2007
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The study of autism has increased in the last few years. No one knows why this disorder occurs, but it affects more children every year. If you are concerned about your child, know the signs of autism.
Autism is the name given to a group of disorders known as autism spectrum disorders. These developmental disorders include: Asperger syndrome, Rett syndrome (mostly affects girls), pervasive developmental disorder, and childhood disintegrative disorder. Most parents of children with autistic disorders begin to notice something different about their child during the first years of life.
Children with autism see the world differently from others. They have trouble communicating (verbal and nonverbal). Autistic children feel uncomfortable interacting socially with others. They also develop repetitive behaviors.
The effects of autism can range from mild to severe and are characterized by certain behaviors. Mildly autistic children can speak and communicate with others, but usually lack the social graces to do this well. Severely autistic children lack the capacity to communicate effectively with others.
From an early age they learn the skills needed to build relationships with their peers. An autistic child would rather be alone than within a group of people. They are uncomfortable in social situations because they have trouble expressing themselves in ways that are acceptable to other children.
Autistic children develop repetitive movements that increase their comfort level. A set routine makes them feel safe and secure. Their minds do not adjust to anything out of the ordinary without some preparation.
Parents may notice changes in their child when they start preschool or by watching how they interact with other children in the family. Autistic children like to be left alone. They will continue to play or become preoccupied with a task even if others come to join them.
Notify your pediatrician if you feel that something along these lines is affecting your child. A doctor can perform the preliminary analysis to see if there is a cause for concern. This is only the first step. Further evaluation needs to be done.
Appropriately diagnosing autism requires a multi-specialty group of individuals: psychiatrist, psychologist, neurologist, speech therapist, and others. If your child is of school age, a school social worker and other educational professionals would be added to the evaluating group. These people will observe the child in different settings and record their observations. Depending on the findings, treatment options will be discussed with the parents.
Scientists do not know what causes autism, but they are working to find out. The National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke (NINDS) is leading the way in research to find out the causes of autistic disorders and how to better treat those who already have the disorders. Their address is http://www.ninds.nih.gov.
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Posted by admin | Filed Under Health & Wellness, Parenting
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